Welp, I was a bit late on this blog post, so no time to grow out your hair for No Shave November. However, this is still useful information for every dude to have.
It’s No Shave November, which means it is time to grow your hair out in honor of anyone who has lost theirs due to cancer. This charity endeavor was designed to save whatever money you would spend on hair removal for the month and donate it to a cancer charity. This is a fun, interactive way to raise cancer awareness. Though it was originally designed for any cancer, it has transitioned into representation of prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is a cancer of the male reproductive system. All men are at risk for prostate cancer. Out of every 100 American men, about 13 will get prostate cancer during their lifetime, and about 2 to 3 men will die from prostate cancer. The biggest risk factor for prostate cancer is age, the older the male, the more at risk they become. If you are African American or have a family history of prostate cancer, you are at higher risk as well.
Different people have different symptoms for prostate cancer. Most men do not have symptoms at all.
If you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to see your provider right away—
· Difficulty starting urination.
· Weak or interrupted flow of urine.
· Urinating often, especially at night.
· Trouble emptying the bladder completely.
· Pain or burning during urination.
· Blood in the urine or semen.
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away.
· Painful ejaculation.
Keep in mind that these symptoms may be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer.
Should I Be Tested?
The US Preventative Services Task Force states the following about screening:
· Men who are 55 to 69 years old should make individual decisions about being screened
for prostate cancer with a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.
· Before deciding, men should talk to their provider about the benefits and harms of
screening for prostate cancer, including the benefits and harms of other tests and
treatment.
· Men who are 70 years old and older should not be screened for prostate cancer routinely.
Prevention
There is no definitive way to prevent prostate cancer, as genetics, race, and family history cannot be changed. However, evidence shows that living an active lifestyle, having a well-balanced diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables, exercising, staying sexually active, ensuring proper vitamin D intake, limiting alcohol intake, and not smoking, are all ways to lower your risk.
Reach out to your provider if you are in doubt. Stay well!
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